Michael John Salek

     I have always felt that attorneys exist to fix problems, not fuel them.  Obviously, there is a stark contrast between these two objectives, but it is often lost on those who profess to uphold the integrity of our profession.  Simply put, we--America's attorneys--are here to ameliorate, not exacerbate, whatever is frustrating your ability to live an enjoyable life.  Admittedly, that sometimes is not possible, due to many factors outside ours, the client's, and everyone else's control.  However, an attorney who does not try to inject reason into a matter, temper the contentiousness that exists, assist the deuling parties to mvoe on with an agreement with which they both can live, is simply not performing his/her essential function. Certainly, there are times to fight.  Just as certainly, however, there are times when compromise serves the greater good, particularly of those close to you.

     Sometimes, lawyers rightfully earn their unfavorable reputation.  However, I believe that most are inherently good, and recognize their purpose as "problem-solvers."  The answer to a legal dispute is rarely an easy find, but a lawyer, more often than not, will get you there.